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Go Radio
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Go Radio was an American rock band from Tallahassee, Florida, formed by former Mayday Parade vocalist, guitarist and lyricist Jason Lancaster in April 2007.[1]
Key Information
The band toured with The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, A Day to Remember, as well as Mayday Parade. They played the entire Vans Warped Tour in 2011, and again during 2013, which was their last tour as a band.[2]
The band announced that they would break up on October 6, 2013. The disbandment was apparently due to the lead singer, Jason Lancaster, setting priorities and putting his family first. Lancaster said in an interview on The Gunz Show that the reason for the band's break up was completely false. Jason has no intention of stopping with his music and is writing new music. Lancaster said that he felt Go Radio had run its course as a band and it was time to move on to the next chapter of his life. When they parted, each of the band members planned to continue making music on their own.[3]
In September 2019, the band announced they had re-united and would begin making music again and were "sharing ideas and working on songs."[4]
In June 2023, it was announced that all members of Go Radio except for Lancaster had started a new band and Go Radio had "dissipated".[5]
History
[edit]Formation and Welcome to Life (2007–09)
[edit]Go Radio was formed in January 2007 before Jason Lancaster left Mayday Parade. Together with Matt 'Burns' Poulos, as well as Steven Kopacz and Patrick Hosey of the Florida band Don't Die Cindy, Lancaster started Go Radio. The name "Go Radio" was originally going to be the name of a Mayday Parade side project of Lancaster's. Hosey left the band in early 2008 and was replaced by Tony Planas.
In 2008 Go Radio released their debut EP Welcome to Life. Planas left the band in late 2008, and was replaced by Alex Reed, formerly of the Michigan band "Carawae". Reed contacted the band through Myspace[6] and originally joined only as a touring guitarist, but was later promoted to a full-time member.
Do Overs and Second Chances (2009–10)
[edit]On September 8, 2009 the band released their first studio update. They revealed that they were in the process of recording a new EP with producers Zack Odom and Kenneth Mount, both of whom produced Mayday Parade's A Lesson in Romantics (2007).[7] On October 5, 2009, Go Radio released two of the songs from the EP on their Myspace. The band then signed to Fearless[8] on January 21, 2010, and went on to release Do Overs and Second Chances as their Fearless debut on April 20, 2010.
Lucky Street (2010–11)
[edit]In the July 2010 issue of Alternative Press Lancaster revealed that he had begun writing for Go Radio's debut album for Fearless. On August 31, 2010 in Brooklyn, NY the band headed into the studio with Tim O'Heir.[9][10] They finished recording on September 29, 2010.[11] The resulting album, Lucky Street was released on March 1, 2011. The album was very well received by critics, and debuted at number 77 on the US Billboard 200 and debuted within the top 20 of the US Billboard Rock, Independent, and Alternative Albums charts. On June 6, 2011, a music video for the single "Any Other Heart" premiered on Vevo.
In the summer of 2011, they played the entire Vans Warped Tour on the Nintendo 3DS Stage. Their next tour will be the first one that takes them overseas as they head to Australia to take part in the Soundwave Counter-Revolution mini-festival from September 24, 2011 until October 12, 2011.
Go Radio announced the release of a deluxe edition of Lucky Street on October 24,[12] 2011. It contains 8 tracks not seen on the original version of the album.
Close the Distance (2012–13)
[edit]In early 2012 the band began demoing new songs for their second studio full-length.
On March 1, 2012 Jason Lancaster announced that the band had finished recording.[13] On April 20, 2012, the album Close the Distance was announced with a release date of August 14, 2012.[14] The release date was pushed back to September 18, 2012. On July 16 the new release date was confirmed and the band announced their album art and track listing along with a preview for their first song "Collide.".[15] To promote their album, Go Radio started a sharing contest in which fans had the chance to unlock the new song off Close the Distance when the number of views, shares, and newsletter signups in total reached 20,000. [16] On July 18, two days after the contest started, fans had already reached the goal and the song premiered on Alternative Press magazine's website [17] The band joined the Vans Warped Tour for all of its 2013 tenure. This was their last major tour prior to their break up in October.
Hiatus (2013-19)
[edit]On October 6, 2013, the band announced their breakup, the band cited Lancaster's desire to settle down with his wife. Lancaster has stated that he will continue to make music on his own, releasing his solo album, As You Are in mid-2014. Kopacz joined Anarbor as a touring drummer. Alex Reed joined another band from Tallahassee, Stages & Stereos as a guitarist.
Reunion and eventual breakup (2019-present)
[edit]On September 29, 2019, the band announced that they have reunited and are currently working on new music. On November 25, 2019, the band released "Goodnight Moon", a fan favorite from Do Overs and Second Chances, as a single to celebrate their reunion. Paired with it was "Say It Again", their first new recording since their breakup in 2013.[18] On July 24, 2020, the band released another single entitled "So Love".[19] On July 15, 2022, the band released the single "Lighter".[20] This is the last single the band released before Reed, Kopacz, and Poulos announced their new band, Be Nice to People, on June 24, 2023.[21] On the Spotify bio for Be Nice to People, it is stated that the band members "formed BNTP to continue creating together as other projects they were involved in dissipated", implying Go Radio is no longer together.[5]
Band members
[edit]- Jason Lancaster – lead vocals, piano, rhythm guitar (2007–2013, 2019–2023)
- Matt "Burns" Poulos – bass guitar, backing vocals (2007–2013, 2019–2023)
- Steven Kopacz – drums, percussion (2007–2013, 2019–2023)
- Alex Reed – lead guitar, vocals (2009–2013, 2019–2023)
- Patrick Hosey – lead guitar, backing vocals (2007)
- Tony Planas – lead guitar, backing vocals (2007–2008)
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]| Year | Album | Chart Positions | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Billboard 200[22] | Rock Albums[23] | Independent Albums[24] | Alternative Albums[25] | ||
| 2011 | Lucky Street
|
77 | 18 | 10 | 13 |
| 2012 | Close the Distance
|
54 | 22 | 12 | 13 |
EPs
[edit]| Year | Album | Chart Positions | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Billboard 200 | Heatseekers[26] | Independent Albums | Alternative New Artist | ||
| 2008 | Welcome to Life (EP)
|
– | – | – | – |
| 2010 | Do Overs and Second Chances [27]
|
179 | 8 | 36 | 4 |
Singles
[edit]| Year | Song | Released | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | "Why I'm Home" | February 2, 2009 | non-album single |
| "Stay Gone" | May 29, 2009 | ||
| 2011 | "Any Other Heart"[28] | January 31, 2011 | Lucky Street |
| "The Truth Is"[29] | February 15, 2011 | ||
| 2012 | "Go to Hell"[30] | August 7, 2012 | Closing the Distance |
| 2019 | "Goodnight Moon"[18] | November 25, 2019 | Do Overs and Second Chances |
| 2020 | "So Love"[19] | July 24, 2020 | Non-album single |
| 2022 | "Lighter" | July 15, 2022 |
Early unreleased demos
[edit]- "Hollie Ollie Oxen Free"
- "That California Song"
- "I Wish It Would Snow"
- "Beautiful Man"
- "Slow Motion"
Compilation appearances
[edit]- 'Tis The Season To Be Fearless with "O Holy Night", originally composed by Adolphe Adam.
- Punk Goes Pop 4 with "Rolling in the Deep" (Adele cover)
Tours
[edit]- 2008
- The Scenic, Lannen Fall, The July Week – To Catch a Preda-Tour (supporting act, U.S.)
- 2009
- The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus – Kick Your Own Ass Tour[31] (opening act, 5/5 - 5/28 and 8/02 - 8/22 and 9/18, U.S.)[32][33]
- 2010
- A Day to Remember – Toursick 2010 (opening act, 4/19 - 5/16, U.S.)[34]
- The Dangerous Summer – Reach for the Sun Tour 2010 (supporting act, 7/10 - 7/17, U.S.)[35]
- Secondhand Serenade – Summer Tour (opening act, 7/20 - 8/8, U.S.)[36]
- Mayday Parade – Fearless Friends Tour[37] (opening act, supporting act on select dates, 10/13 – 11/28, U.S.)[38]
- 2011
- Emarosa w/ Chiodos, Go Radio, Decoder (supporting act, 2/15 - 3/5, U.S.)[39]
- A Rocket to the Moon – On Your Side Tour (supporting act, 3/15 - 4/23, U.S.)[40]
- Go Radio w/ Sparks the Rescue, This Century, Select Start – District Lines Tour (headliner, 5/5 - 5/28, U.S.)[41]
- Warped Tour 2011 – Warped Tour 2011 (6/24 - 8/14, U.S. and Canada)[2]
- Counter-Revolution - Counter-Revolution - (9/24, 9/25, 9/30, 10/2, 10/3, Australia) [42]
- Yellowcard - Yellowcard Fall Tour (supporting act, 10/8 - 11/18, U.S and Canada)
- 2012
- Go Radio w/ This Providence, Tyler Carter (ex-Woe, Is Me), Simple As Surgery, and Ivory Lights - Lucky Street Tour (headliner, 3/20 - 5/13, U.S) [43][44]
- SafetySuit - Fall Tour (direct support, 9/7 - 10/5, U.S)[45]
- Go Radio w/ Paradise Fears and Stages and Stereos - #GoToHell Tour (headliner, 11/2 - 12/4, U.S)[46]
- 2013
- The Summer Set w/ We Are the In Crowd, Go Radio and For the Foxes - Wake Up & Be Awesome Tour (supporting act, 2/21 - 3/30, U.S)[47]
- Warped Tour 2013 – Warped Tour 2013 (6/15 - 8/4, U.S. and Canada)[48]
References
[edit]- ^ "AP&R May 2011". Alt Press. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ a b "2011 Vans Warped Tour first band announcements". Facebook.com. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ Gallo, Alex (October 2013). "Jason Lancaster of Go Radio opens up regarding band's breakup". idobi. Retrieved October 9, 2013.
- ^ "It is with great pleasure..." Facebook. September 30, 2019. Retrieved April 29, 2021.
- ^ a b "Be Nice to People". Spotify. Retrieved June 27, 2023.
- ^ Nicolas Vasquez (November 1, 2010). "Alex Reed from Go Radio Interview". Youtube.com. Retrieved April 1, 2013.[dead YouTube link]
- ^ "Go Radio Enters Studio". AbsolutePunk.net. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Go Radio Sign to Fearless Records". AbsolutePunk.net. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Twitter / @GoJason: In Brooklyn with Tim o'heir making the best record ever". Twitter.com. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Go Radio Heading Into The Studio To Record Debut Full-Length". The Sound Alarm. July 14, 2010. Archived from the original on December 26, 2010. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Twitter / @GoJason: The records done!!!!!". Twitter.com. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Go Radio Luck Street Deluxe Edition Pre-Order". Theinterlude.com. Archived from the original on April 3, 2012. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ Tyler Common (March 1, 2012). "News | Go Radio finish new album". altpress.com. Retrieved December 14, 2014.
- ^ "We're excited to..." Facebook. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Fearless Records - About". Facebook. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Go Radio Official Website". Wearegoradio.com. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ Matthew Colwell (July 18, 2012). "Song Premiere: Go Radio, "Collide" - Alternative Press". Altpress.com. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ a b "Goodnight Moon - Single". Apple Music. November 25, 2019. Archived from the original on December 4, 2020. Retrieved June 10, 2021.
- ^ a b "So Love - Single". Apple Music. July 24, 2020. Archived from the original on June 11, 2021. Retrieved June 10, 2021.
- ^ "Lighter (Single) 2022 – Go Radio". Retrieved June 27, 2023.
- ^ "Be Nice to People (@bntpband) • Instagram photos and videos". www.instagram.com. Retrieved June 27, 2023.
- ^ "Go Radio - Chart history (Billboard 200)". Billboard. Retrieved February 11, 2014.
- ^ "Go Radio - Chart history (Rock Albums)". Billboard. Retrieved February 11, 2014.
- ^ "Go Radio - Chart history (Independent Albums)". Billboard. Retrieved February 11, 2014.
- ^ "Go Radio - Chart history (Alternative Albums)". Billboard. Retrieved February 11, 2014.
- ^ "Go Radio - Chart history (Heatseekers Albums)". Billboard. Retrieved February 11, 2014.
- ^ Westminster (April 30, 2010). "Go Radio Debuts At No. 8 On The Billboard Heatseekers Chart! - Westminster, CA". AmericanTowns.com. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Any Other Heart - Single". iTunes. Apple. Archived from the original on February 4, 2011. Retrieved February 17, 2020.
- ^ "Go Radio | blog". Go Radio. Myspace. Archived from the original on March 7, 2011. Retrieved February 17, 2020.
- ^ "Go to Hell - Single". iTunes Store. Archived from the original on August 10, 2012. Retrieved February 21, 2020.
- ^ "The Dares - The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus Tour "Kick Your Own Ass" - various venues - (July/August 2009)". Dzrimages.com. October 24, 2012. Archived from the original on March 8, 2012. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Tour with The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus!!! - May 5th to May 28th". Blogs.myspace.com. April 4, 2009. Archived from the original on February 7, 2009. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus - JULY - AUGUST US/CANADA TOUR DATES! - Posted Jun 25, 2009". Blogs.myspace.com. June 25, 2009. Archived from the original on February 7, 2009. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ ground(ctrl) (January 19, 2010). "Are You Toursick? (UPDATE) : A Day To Remember". Adtrofficial.com. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "July 2010 Tour Dates". Blogs.myspace.com. June 14, 2010. Archived from the original on July 12, 2012. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "More tour with Secondhand Serenade, White Tie Affair & RunnerRunner". Blogs.myspace.com. June 14, 2010. Archived from the original on July 7, 2012. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Fearless Friends Tour". fearlessrecords.com. Archived from the original on September 28, 2010. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Fearless Friends Tour dates". AbsolutePunk.net. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Emarosa and Chiodos Tour Dates". Absolutepunk.net. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ ""On Your Side" Tour w/ A Rocket to the Moon". Myspace.com. January 4, 2011. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "District Lines Headlining Tour Announcement - Posted Mar 9, 2011". Myspace.com. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Soundwave 'COUNTER REVOLUTION' – Lineup announced - Music/Concerts & Festivals". spotlightreport.net. May 16, 2011. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Go Radio announce headlining tour with There For Tomorrow, Tonight Alive, Tyler Carter". Alternative Press. January 23, 2012. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Go Radio Tour Line-Up Change". Absolutepunk.net. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Go Radio Fall Tour Dates". Absolutepunk.net. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Go Radio To Hell". AbsolutePunk. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Exclusive: The Summer Set announce tour with We Are The In Crowd, Go Radio and For The Foxes". Alternative Press. January 9, 2013. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ "Woe, Is Me, Go Radio, The Story So Far and three more announced for Warped Tour 2013". Alternative Press. December 8, 2012. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
External links
[edit]Go Radio
View on GrokipediaHistory
Formation and early releases (2007–2010)
Go Radio was formed in April 2007 in Tallahassee, Florida, by vocalist and guitarist Jason Lancaster following his departure from Mayday Parade, where he sought to explore a fresh approach to his songwriting and melodic rock style.[9] Initially envisioned as a solo endeavor, the project soon expanded into a band featuring Lancaster on lead vocals, guitar, and piano, alongside bassist Matt "Burns" Poulos, drummer Steven Kopacz, and original lead guitarist Patrick Hosey, with early contributions from guitarist Tony Planas after Hosey's departure in early 2008.[10] The lineup saw further adjustments in its first year, as the group honed its sound amid Florida's vibrant pop-punk and emo scene, performing at local venues and building a grassroots following through regional shows.[1] In 2008, Go Radio self-released their debut EP, Welcome to Life, on August 13, capturing their raw, heartfelt pop-rock essence with tracks like "The Worst Part of Being Alone Is Being Alone" and "Any Other Heart."[11] The EP's intimate production highlighted Lancaster's emotive lyrics and piano-driven arrangements, drawing from personal experiences of heartbreak and growth, and it served as an introduction to the band's ability to blend catchy hooks with emotional depth. To promote the release, the quartet toured extensively in the Southeast, sharing stages with fellow Florida acts and gradually expanding their reach beyond Tallahassee's local circuit.[9] By late 2008, guitarist Planas departed, paving the way for Alex Reed to join as lead guitarist in 2009, solidifying the band's core configuration and infusing their live sets with more dynamic energy. This refreshed lineup caught the attention of Fearless Records, leading to a signing announcement in early 2010 that positioned Go Radio for wider exposure in the melodic rock landscape.[12] Their Fearless debut, the EP Do Overs and Second Chances, arrived on April 20, 2010, expanding to seven tracks—including the piano ballad "Goodnight Moon" and the anthemic single "You Had Me at Hello"—and debuted at number 179 on the Billboard 200, as well as number 8 on the Heatseekers chart.[13][14] The release marked a pivotal step, amplifying their buzz through increased touring and radio play within the pop-punk community.Breakthrough with Lucky Street (2010–2011)
Following the release of their EPs Welcome to Life (2008) and Do Overs and Second Chances (2010), Go Radio entered the studio to record their debut full-length album, Lucky Street, building momentum from those earlier efforts that had garnered attention in the pop-punk and alternative rock scenes.[1] The album was produced by Tim O'Heir and mixed by James Paul Wisner, with recording wrapping up in late 2010.[15] Released on March 1, 2011, via Fearless Records, Lucky Street marked the band's transition to a major label-backed project and showcased a polished pop-rock sound characterized by anthemic choruses and emotional depth.[16] Commercially, Lucky Street achieved modest but significant success for a debut, peaking at number 77 on the Billboard 200 chart and entering the top 20 on both the Independent Albums and Rock Albums charts.[17] The lead single, "Any Other Heart," was released prior to the album and received initial radio airplay on alternative stations, helping to introduce the band to a broader audience.[18] A music video for the track premiered on Vevo on June 6, 2011, directed with a narrative focus on themes of longing and resilience, further amplifying its reach through online platforms.[18] The album's artwork, featuring a minimalist urban street scene at dusk, evoked a sense of introspection that aligned with its lyrical content, contributing to its visual promotion across digital and physical retail formats.[19] Lyrically, Lucky Street explored themes of relationships, heartbreak, and personal growth, with vocalist Jason Lancaster drawing from autobiographical experiences to craft vulnerable yet uplifting narratives.[20] Standout tracks like "Strength to Stay," which addresses perseverance amid emotional turmoil, and "Goodnight Moon," a piano-driven ballad reflecting on loss and closure, highlighted the album's emotional range and resonated with fans navigating similar life stages.[20] These elements helped establish Go Radio's identity within the pop-rock genre, emphasizing relatable storytelling over aggressive instrumentation. The album's promotion extended to live performances, providing the band's first major exposure through supporting slots on tours with established acts like The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, A Day to Remember, and Mayday Parade throughout 2011.[17] Additionally, Go Radio secured a spot on the entire Vans Warped Tour that summer, performing on the Kevin Says stage across multiple dates and connecting directly with festival-goers, which boosted album sales and fan engagement in the alternative music community.[21] This period solidified Lucky Street as a breakthrough, positioning Go Radio for sustained momentum in the scene.Close the Distance and initial breakup (2012–2013)
In early 2012, Go Radio began demoing material for their second studio album, entering pre-production with producer James Paul Wisner in Tallahassee, Florida.[22] On April 20, 2012, the band announced the album's title, Close the Distance, via Alternative Press, with an initial release date of August 14 that was later pushed back.[23] The band recorded the album throughout the spring and summer, building on the momentum from their debut Lucky Street (2011), which had established their pop-punk foundation.[1] Close the Distance was released on September 18, 2012, through Fearless Records, with Wisner handling production, recording, and mixing duties on most tracks.[24] The album debuted at number 54 on the Billboard 200 and reached number 9 on the Alternative Albums chart, marking the band's highest charting release to date.[25] Its lead singles, "Collide" and "Go to Hell," were promoted with music videos emphasizing the band's anthemic style, while "Lost and Found" followed as a radio single.[4] Musically, Close the Distance represented a maturation from Go Radio's earlier pop-punk roots, incorporating more piano-driven arrangements and alternative rock elements for a fuller, more introspective sound.[1] The lyrics delved deeper into themes of emotional closure, relational distance, and personal growth, often drawing from Lancaster's experiences with love and separation, as evident in tracks like the title song and "What If You Don't."[26] This evolution showcased a band honing their songcraft toward broader emotional resonance rather than high-energy hooks alone.[27] Following the album's release, Go Radio supported it with extensive touring, including the #GoToHell Tour in fall 2012 and a slot on the 2013 Vans Warped Tour, followed by their final show in August 2013 in Houston, Texas.[25] On October 6, 2013, the band announced their breakup via an official statement, citing the need to pursue individual paths after seven years together and expressing gratitude to fans while noting ongoing involvement in music.[28] Lancaster elaborated in a personal message that the decision stemmed from personal challenges over the prior six months, emphasizing his focus on family and a supportive home life as priorities moving forward.[29]Hiatus period (2013–2019)
Following the band's abrupt breakup in October 2013, Go Radio entered a period of complete inactivity, with no tours, recordings, or official communications from the group until 2019. Frontman Jason Lancaster cited a desire to prioritize family life and personal stability as a key factor in the split, marking the end of the band's intense touring schedule that had defined their career.[29] Lancaster transitioned to a solo career during this time, releasing his debut album As You Are on June 23, 2014, through Outerloop Records, an imprint of Fearless Records. The record featured more introspective and acoustic-leaning tracks compared to Go Radio's pop-punk sound, reflecting themes of love, change, and personal growth. In the same year, Lancaster contributed guest vocals to "Burning" on The Pretty Reckless' album Going to Hell, showcasing his continued involvement in the rock scene outside the band.[30][31] The other members—bassist Matt "Burns" Poulos, guitarist Alex Reed, and drummer Steven Kopacz—pursued separate paths with minimal public musical output under their own names during the hiatus. Poulos shifted focus toward business and operations roles, drawing on his experience from years of international touring. Reed and Kopacz maintained low profiles in music, occasionally sharing personal updates but avoiding any collaborative projects tied to Go Radio's legacy. Kopacz faced significant personal challenges, including a 2017 diagnosis of cancer, which further emphasized the members' pivot to private lives amid the band's dormancy.[32] Throughout the six-year gap, Go Radio produced no new material, leading to persistent fan speculation about a possible reunion, fueled by the genre's enduring popularity and the band's unresolved catalog. Online communities and music forums occasionally resurfaced discussions about the breakup's dramatic circumstances, including reported communication breakdowns among members, but the group issued no statements to address these rumors. This silence contrasted with the evolving pop-punk landscape of the mid-2010s, where the genre blended more with emo and alternative influences, and many acts faced similar pauses due to shifting industry dynamics and artists' growing family commitments.[33] The hiatus began to show signs of potential change in July 2019, when a social media photo posted by Lancaster—depicting a casual jam session—ignited widespread excitement and speculation among fans about the band's return after exactly six years away. This teaser, shared without context, hinted at reconciliation and new creative possibilities without confirming any details.[31]Reunion, new music, and dissolution (2019–2023)
On September 30, 2019, Go Radio announced their reunion via Instagram after a six-year hiatus, stating that time had provided perspective on their shared history since 2007 and reignited their passion for making music together.[5] The band, consisting of vocalist Jason Lancaster, guitarist Alex Reed, bassist Matt Poulos, and drummer Steven Kopacz, expressed pride in their catalog and excitement about collaborating on new material once again.[5] Following the announcement, Go Radio released their first new song in seven years, "Say It Again," on November 25, 2019, through Fearless Records.[34] The track was produced by James Paul Wisner, who had previously worked with the band, and marked their return to recording after the 2012 album Close the Distance.[34] In July 2020, they issued "So Love" as their first self-released single, recorded with Wisner in Orlando before the COVID-19 pandemic and finalized remotely amid lockdowns.[6] The song, described by the band as an anthem of comfort and unity, emphasized themes of love during challenging times.[6] Their third and final release during this period, "Lighter," arrived on July 15, 2022, also self-released and featuring a lyric video directed by Kopacz.[7] Activities remained limited throughout the reunion era, constrained by the COVID-19 pandemic and members' personal commitments; the band shared acoustic performances online, such as a live session of "Say It Again" in April 2020, but did not embark on major tours.[35] Small-scale or virtual engagements substituted for live shows, reflecting the broader industry's adaptations during the health crisis.[6] In 2023, Go Radio effectively dissipated without a formal breakup announcement, as Poulos, Kopacz, and Reed formed a new band, Be Nice to People, to pursue self-released music and explore fresh creative directions.[8] This left Lancaster as the sole remaining original member, with no further band activity recorded. As of November 2025, Lancaster has focused on solo songwriting and production endeavors, including joining the Fieldhouse Artist Roster and releasing the God of Wonder (Acoustic) EP along with the single "Lighthouse" in 2025.[36][37] The band's official website continues to feature their existing releases but shows no updates beyond 2022.[38]Musical style and influences
Genre and sound evolution
Go Radio's music is primarily classified as pop rock and alternative rock, with prominent pop punk roots stemming from frontman Jason Lancaster's background in the genre during his time with Mayday Parade.[39][1] The band's early releases, including the independent EP Welcome to Life (2008) and the Fearless Records EP Do Overs and Second Chances (2010), featured a blend of piano-driven ballads and upbeat punk-infused tracks, emphasizing emotional song structures with strong guitar riffs and harmonious melodies.[40][41] From their debut album Lucky Street (2011) through Close the Distance (2012), Go Radio's sound evolved toward more polished production, incorporating subtle electronic elements like computer-generated intros and expansive anthemic choruses alongside continued piano accents.[42][43] This shift marked a maturation from raw pop punk energy to a broader alternative rock palette, with softer indie-folk and acoustic influences emerging in tracks that prioritized eloquent, layered arrangements over aggressive tempos.[27][22] During their reunion from 2019 to 2023, Go Radio adopted a more mature and introspective pop rock style, evident in singles like "Say It Again" (2019) and "Lighter" (2022), which explored themes of resilience and personal loss with reduced punk aggression and greater emphasis on anthemic, vibe-driven hooks.[34][44] Critics have praised the band's consistent focus on emotional lyrics and infectious hooks across their discography, often highlighting how these elements create relatable, participatory anthems.[1][45] This reception has drawn comparisons to acts like Jimmy Eat World and The Starting Line for their blend of heartfelt introspection and radio-friendly polish.[46][47]Key influences
Jason Lancaster, Go Radio's lead vocalist and primary songwriter, drew significant inspiration from his tenure with Mayday Parade, his previous band, which informed the pop-punk foundations of Go Radio's early material and his approach to melodic song structures.[48] Lancaster's guitar playing was shaped by Southern rock staples from his childhood, including Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and the Allman Brothers Band, elements that added a bluesy edge to his riffs and solos.[22] Guitarist Alex Reed contributed classical influences from his parents, both music educators who taught him piano from age three and cello as a young child; this background infused the band's arrangements with piano-driven melodies and string accents, particularly evident in their sophomore album.[22] Reed has highlighted Jimmy Eat World, Foo Fighters, and Hellogoodbye as key favorites that influenced his rock-oriented guitar work and the band's overall energy.[49] Additionally, Reed's attendance at an early concert featuring Taking Back Sunday alongside Boxcar Racer and The Used helped foster Go Radio's adoption of dynamic, emotive pop-punk rhythms.[49] The collective influences on Go Radio reflected a blend of pop-punk vitality and alternative rock introspection, with lyrics often centering on personal narratives of relationships and growth. Over time, these inspirations evolved from the punk-leaning energy of their initial EPs to a broader mainstream rock palette by 2012, incorporating indie-folk and acoustic textures in production choices for greater emotional depth.[22]Band members
Core and current members
Go Radio's core members formed the band's primary lineup from 2009 to 2013 and reunited in 2019, providing continuity in roles and creative direction until the band's dissipation in June 2023. This quartet included founder Jason Lancaster on lead vocals, rhythm guitar, and piano; Matt "Burns" Poulos on bass and backing vocals; Steven Kopacz on drums; and Alex Reed on lead guitar and vocals.[3] Their collaboration emphasized piano-driven rock elements, with collective contributions to songwriting evident in credits for tracks like "Goodnight Moon," where all four are listed as writers.[2] [50] Following the dissipation, Poulos, Kopacz, and Reed formed the band Be Nice to People, while Lancaster continued as a solo songwriter and producer.[8] Jason Lancaster established the band in 2007 and remained its creative anchor, handling lead vocals, rhythm guitar, and piano while serving as the primary songwriter for lyrics and melodies across albums such as Lucky Street (2011) and Close the Distance (2012).[2] [51] Known for crafting heartfelt, relatable narratives, Lancaster's piano work added emotional depth to the band's sound.[51] During the 2019 reunion, he led the return by co-writing and performing new self-released singles "Say It Again" (November 2019), a reimagined "Goodnight Moon" (November 2019), "So Love" (July 2020), and "Lighter" (July 2022), recorded independently with producer James Paul Wisner.[3] [6] [44] After the band's end, Lancaster joined the Fieldhouse Artist Roster as a songwriter and producer.[52] Matt "Burns" Poulos joined at the band's inception in 2007, providing bass lines and backing vocals that supported the rhythmic structure and harmonic layers in both studio and live contexts.[2] [50] His contributions extended to the reunion period, where he participated in producing the new singles, helping maintain the band's energetic pop-rock delivery.[53] [44] In June 2023, Poulos co-founded Be Nice to People with Kopacz and Reed.[8] Steven Kopacz has been the drummer since 2007, delivering a solid rhythmic foundation that underpinned the band's live performances and recordings.[2] He co-wrote material during the active years and rejoined for the 2019–2023 phase, contributing to the production of reunion tracks like "Lighter."[50] [53] In June 2023, Kopacz co-founded Be Nice to People with Poulos and Reed.[8] Alex Reed integrated into the lineup in 2009 as lead guitarist and backing vocalist, introducing prominent guitar solos and co-writing arrangements that evolved the band's sound post-formation.[14] [50] In the reunion era, Reed's guitar work and vocal harmonies featured prominently in the self-produced singles, reinforcing the core quartet's cohesive dynamic.[53] [44] In June 2023, Reed co-founded Be Nice to People with Poulos and Kopacz.[8]Former members
Go Radio's early lineup underwent changes as the band solidified its sound in Tallahassee, Florida. Patrick Hosey joined as lead guitarist in 2007, contributing guitar work to initial recordings and early demos before departing later that year.[54] Hosey was replaced by Tony Planas, who served as guitarist from late 2007 through 2008 and participated in early demos as well as local performances.[17] Planas left the band due to scheduling conflicts, marking the end of significant lineup instability that ultimately allowed the core members—Jason Lancaster, Matt "Burns" Poulos, Steven Kopacz, and Alex Reed—to coalesce by 2009.[17] Following their departures, both Hosey and Planas continued involvement in local music scenes in Florida.[55][56]Discography
Studio albums
Go Radio released two studio albums during their initial active period, both through Fearless Records and showcasing the band's pop-punk and alternative rock sound with emotional lyrics centered on relationships and personal growth. The debut album, Lucky Street, came out on March 1, 2011. Produced by Tim O'Heir at Earth Sound Studios in New Jersey and mixed by James Paul Wisner, it consists of 12 tracks that build on the band's earlier EP material, including a re-recorded version of "Goodnight Moon." Standout tracks like "Any Other Heart" highlight Lancaster's soaring vocals and the band's melodic hooks, contributing to the album's reception as a promising entry in the pop-punk scene. Lucky Street debuted at number 77 on the Billboard 200, selling approximately 7,000 copies in its first week.[15][1][57] Their sophomore effort, Close the Distance, was released on September 18, 2012. Fully produced, recorded, and mixed by James Paul Wisner at Wisner Productions in Florida, the album features 11 tracks that demonstrate a more mature songwriting approach, with refined production emphasizing piano-driven ballads and anthemic choruses. Key songs such as "I Won't Lie" and "Go to Hell" exemplify this evolution, earning praise for their emotional depth and accessibility compared to the debut. It peaked at number 54 on the Billboard 200 and topped the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart.[58][1][4][59] Following the band's hiatus and reunion in 2019, no additional full-length studio albums were released, with new material limited to singles and EPs.Extended plays
Go Radio released their debut extended play, Welcome to Life, on August 13, 2008, as an independent, self-released effort that marked the band's early formation in Tallahassee, Florida.[60][61] The EP featured six tracks, including "Ready or Not," "I Miss You," and the title track "Welcome to Life," showcasing a raw pop-punk and emo-influenced sound driven by vocalist Jason Lancaster's melodic style and piano elements.[62] Produced independently with limited distribution primarily through local shows and online sales, it served as a foundational release that helped build the band's initial fanbase before signing with a label.[60][63] Following their signing to Fearless Records in January 2010, Go Radio issued their second EP, Do Overs and Second Chances, on April 20, 2010.[13][17] Recorded with producers Zack Odom and Kenneth Mount, the six-track release included standout songs such as "You Had Me @ Hello" and "Any Other Heart," blending heartfelt lyrics with anthemic pop-rock arrangements that highlighted the band's evolving emotional depth.[64][65] The EP debuted at number 179 on the Billboard 200 chart, number 8 on the Heatseekers Albums chart, and achieved further placements on the Independent Albums (number 36) and Rock Albums (number 4) charts, demonstrating growing commercial traction.[14][17] These two EPs played a crucial role in Go Radio's early career, capturing their unpolished, introspective sound rooted in personal storytelling and energetic instrumentation before transitioning to the more refined production of their full-length albums.[1] While some early unreleased demos from the Welcome to Life sessions circulated among fans, they remained unofficial and did not see formal release.[66] No additional extended plays followed, as the band shifted focus to studio albums and later singles during their active periods.[67]Singles
Go Radio released several singles throughout their career, primarily as promotional tracks tied to their albums and extended plays, with a focus on emotional pop-rock anthems that emphasized themes of love, loss, and redemption. While the band did not achieve significant commercial chart success on major Billboard rankings, their singles benefited from radio airplay on alternative stations, music videos, and strong fan engagement, particularly during their initial run with Fearless Records. Post-reunion releases shifted to independent distribution, highlighting themes of hope and personal growth amid streaming platforms' rise.Key Singles
| Title | Release Date | Associated Release | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goodnight Moon | October 20, 2011 (video premiere) | Do Overs and Second Chances EP | Lead single with an official music video depicting intimate, nighttime scenes; received alternative radio play and helped build early buzz for the EP.[68] |
| Any Other Heart | January 31, 2011 | Lucky Street | Debut album lead single; accompanied by a music video released in June 2011, focusing on heartbreak; gained traction through rock radio airplay and live performances.[69] |
| Go to Hell | August 7, 2012 | Close the Distance | Promotional single with a lyric video; explored themes of defiance in relationships; supported album rollout with festival appearances but limited chart impact.[70] |
| Goodnight Moon (revisited) / Say It Again | November 25, 2019 | Standalone single | Independent reunion release featuring an updated version of the 2011 track alongside new song "Say It Again"; vinyl edition issued in 2021; marked the band's return with nostalgic appeal and themes of enduring love.[71][72] |
| So Love | July 24, 2020 | Standalone single | First fully self-released track post-reunion; lyric video emphasized hopeful romance amid personal challenges, including band member health issues; resonated with fans via streaming, amassing steady plays on platforms like Spotify.[6] |
| Lighter | July 15, 2022 | Standalone single | Second independent single; lyric video and self-produced effort highlighted resilience and starting anew; released during ongoing reunion tours, focusing on fan connection rather than commercial promotion.[73] |
